Fast Food and Counter Worker Salary in Kentucky
Based on 42K+ workers in Kentucky
Median Annual Salary (KY)
$27,130
$13.04/hr
vs National Average
$30,570
-11.3% vs national median
Salary Range (10th–90th)
$22K – $34K
42K employed in Kentucky
The Fast Food and Counter Worker salary in Kentucky offers a median annual income of $27,130, equivalent to $13 per hour. This figure is notably lower than the national average, falling 11.3% below.
Several factors can influence the Fast Food and Counter Worker salary in Kentucky. These include the specific employer, the location within the state, and the individual's level of experience and skills. Wages can range from $21,590 to $34,420 annually for this occupation.
Salary Distribution — Fast Food and Counter Worker in Kentucky
| Percentile | Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| 10th percentile | $21,590 |
| 25th percentile | $22,800 |
| Median (50th percentile) | $27,130 |
| 75th percentile | $29,680 |
| 90th percentile | $34,420 |
Top-Paying Industries for Fast Food and Counter Worker (U.S.)
Which industries pay Fast Food and Counter Workers the most — nationwide figures (industry-level data is not available by state). Fast Food and Counter Workers in Kentucky tend to follow these industry patterns.
| Industry (U.S.) | Median Salary | Employed (U.S.) |
|---|---|---|
| Transportation and Warehousing | $38,740 | 390 |
| Government (excl. schools, hospitals & USPS) | $37,820 | 18K |
| Health Care and Social Assistance | $36,850 | 17K |
| Educational Services | $35,370 | 117K |
| Wholesale Trade | $34,990 | 4K |
Source: U.S. BLS OEWS National Industry-Specific estimates, May 2025. National figures (not state-specific).
Historical Salary Trend — Fast Food and Counter Worker in Kentucky vs National
| Year | Median Salary (Kentucky) |
|---|---|
| 2025 | $27,130 |
| 2026 (projected) | $27,944 |
The latest year is a projection based on recent wage trends — BLS has not yet released that year’s data.
| Year | Kentucky Median | National Median |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | $27,130 | $30,570 |
| 2026 (projected) | $27,944 | $31,487 |
Fast Food and Counter Worker Salary by Experience Level in Kentucky
| Experience Level | Years | Median Annual Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Junior | 0-2 yrs | $22,800 |
| Mid-level | 3-5 yrs | $27,130 |
| Senior | 6-9 yrs | $29,680 |
| Staff / Lead | 10+ yrs | $34,420 |
Fast Food and Counter Worker Salary in Other States
Related Fast Food and Counter Worker Salaries in Kentucky
How other high-demand occupations in Kentucky compare to Fast Food and Counter Worker ($27,130 median).
| Occupation | Median Salary | vs Fast Food and Counter Worker | Hourly |
|---|---|---|---|
| Restaurant Cook in KY | $34,640 | +27.7% | $16.65/hr |
| Waiter and Waitress in KY | $29,660 | +9.3% | $14.26/hr |
| Cashier in KY | $28,590 | +5.4% | $13.75/hr |
| Retail Salesperson in KY | $29,650 | +9.3% | $14.25/hr |
| Receptionist in KY | $32,940 | +21.4% | $15.84/hr |
| Security Guard in KY | $35,420 | +30.6% | $17.03/hr |
| Home Health and Personal Care Aide in KY | $36,440 | +34.3% | $17.52/hr |
| Stocker and Order Filler in KY | $36,810 | +35.7% | $17.70/hr |
| Firefighter in KY | $37,150 | +36.9% | $17.86/hr |
| Nursing Assistant (CNA) in KY | $38,370 | +41.4% | $18.45/hr |
| Customer Service Representative in KY | $38,700 | +42.6% | $18.61/hr |
| Pharmacy Technician in KY | $39,200 | +44.5% | $18.85/hr |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the average hourly wage for a Fast Food and Counter Worker in Kentucky?
- The average hourly wage for a Fast Food and Counter Worker in Kentucky is $13 per hour. This is derived from the median annual salary of $27,130.
What is the salary range for this job in Kentucky?
- The salary range for Fast Food and Counter Workers in Kentucky typically falls between $21,590 and $34,420 per year. This means that most individuals in this role earn within these bounds.
How does the Fast Food and Counter Worker salary in Kentucky compare to the national average?
- The Fast Food and Counter Worker salary in Kentucky is 11.3% lower than the national average. The median annual salary in Kentucky is $27,130, while the national median is higher.
How many Fast Food and Counter Workers are employed in Kentucky?
- There are approximately 41,860 Fast Food and Counter Workers employed in Kentucky. This indicates a significant presence of this profession across the state.